From 13 July 2026, the probate application fee in England and Wales increased from £300 to £526 for estates valued above £5,000. Estates worth £5,000 or less remain exempt. The fee is normally paid when the application is submitted. Executors who pay personally should keep a record so it can be reimbursed from the estate when funds become available. Our probate solicitors in London can help with the application and wider administration.
What changed on 13 July 2026
One copy of the grant is included. Additional copies requested with the application now cost £2 each, while copies ordered later cost £16 each. The official court and tribunal fees update explains the changes.
| Probate cost | Before 13 July 2026 | From 13 July 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee for an estate over £5,000 | £300 | £526 |
| Application fee for an estate worth £5,000 or less | Free | Free |
| Extra copies requested with the application | £16 each | £2 each |
| Extra copies requested after submission | £16 each | £16 each |
Estimate how many banks, investment providers and other organisations will need a copy before applying. People on a low income or certain benefits may qualify for Help with Fees, although copy charges are excluded.
Confirm whether probate is required
A grant is not needed for every estate. Jointly owned assets may pass automatically to the survivor, depending on how they were held, and banks set their own limits for releasing funds without probate. Solely owned property will usually require a grant before it can be sold or transferred.
Where there is a valid will, the original document identifies the executors who may apply. Without a valid will, the intestacy rules determine who inherits and who has priority to apply for letters of administration. Concerns about whether the deceased understood and approved the will may require advice on testamentary capacity.
Value the estate and deal with tax
Executors must identify the assets and debts and use realistic open-market values. An estate agent or chartered surveyor may be needed for property, particularly where the value is uncertain or the estate may be taxable.
The standard Inheritance Tax rate is 40% on the taxable value above the available allowances. The basic nil-rate band is £325,000. A residence nil-rate band of up to £175,000 may apply when a qualifying home passes to direct descendants. Unused allowances can sometimes transfer between spouses or civil partners, allowing a qualifying survivor’s estate to pass on up to £1 million free of Inheritance Tax. Tapering and other conditions can reduce the allowance, so review the latest inheritance tax changes.
Inheritance Tax normally starts becoming payable before probate is granted and should generally be paid by the end of the sixth month after death to avoid interest. Participating banks and investment providers can transfer money directly from the deceased’s accounts to HMRC through the Direct Payment Scheme. If money is owed to the estate, our debt recovery service can assist.
Agree who will apply
Not every named executor has to join the first application. One or more can apply while another holds power reserved, retaining the right to apply later, or formally renounces the role. If relationships are strained, our guide to executor disputes when the family disagrees over an estate explains the options. Our civil litigation solicitors can advise if a dispute becomes contentious.
Frequently asked questions
How long does probate take? GOV.UK says a grant will usually arrive within 12 weeks of submission. Missing information, tax issues or disputes can extend the timetable.
Can the fee be paid from the estate? It is payable on submission. An executor who pays personally should record it as an estate administration expense and seek repayment once funds are accessible.
The increase is also a prompt to review your own arrangements. Depending on your circumstances, mirror wills or a life interest trust may be appropriate. Our team can explain the options when writing a will.
Get help with probate
Our solicitors in North London can help confirm whether a grant is needed, value and report the estate, deal with tax and manage the process through to distribution.